King James Version
Deuteronomy 10:20 in the King James Version says “Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name.” — study this verse from Deuteronomy chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name.”
Deuteronomy 10:20 · KJV
He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment.
Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.
Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name.
He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen.
Thy fathers went down into Egypt with threescore and ten persons; and now the LORD thy God hath made thee as the stars of heaven for multitude.
KJV Study — Public Domain
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
“thy God”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
“him shalt thou serve”
H5647to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
“and to him shalt thou cleave”
H1692properly, to impinge, i.e., cling or adhere; figuratively, to catch by pursuit
“by his name”
H8034an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
“and swear”
H7650to seven oneself, i.e., swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times)
This verse is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Deuteronomy 10:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Deuteronomy 10:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge